Muscular force-velocity parameters during single joint and multiple joint sagittal activities of the upper limb

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Stefańska, Małgorzata^a

Affiliations: [a] Department of Physiotherapy, University School of Physical Education, ul. Rzeźbiarska 4, pok.3/3, 51-629 Wrocław, Poland. Tel.: +48 71 347 36 30; Fax: +48 71 347 36 09; E-mail: stef@sreh.awf.wroc.pl

Abstract: Objective: To determine the force-velocity characteristics (F-v) of upper limb muscles and specify the muscle group which has a predominant influence on the global F-v characteristics of the limb. Subjects and methods: 30 healthy young men participated in this study which consisted of two experiments. In the first the moment developed by flexors and extensors of shoulder, elbow and radio-carpal joints at angular velocities ranging 0–300°/s was measured isokinetically. In the second experiment global F-v characteristics were assessed statically and dynamically. Results: Elbow extensors had a predominant impact on the shape of the global F-v characteristics of the examined limb. Conclusions: The force-velocity characteristics provide comprehensive information regarding the capacity of the examined muscle groups. This information is of value in setting target scores for total upper limb strength in the context of specific habitual activities such as chair rise.

Keywords: upper limb, isokinetics, force-velocity characteristics, peak torque

DOI: 10.3233/IES-2004-0163

Journal: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 117-125, 2004